Gay teen shunned by parents starts college fund for others

[pnwmom]

1. Students and adults who work with them need to know that there is a special exception

to the FAFSA requirement that lets students like this young man apply for student aid without their parents' cooperation.

Usually, parental info (and cooperation) is required till a student is 24, but not in the cases of documented abuse or homelessness.

The one to make the decision about eligibility is the Financial Aid Administrator at the individual college(s).

https://fafsa.ed.gov/help/fotwfaq52.htm

Under Federal law, only your FAA has the authority to decide whether or not you must provide parental information on your FAFSA.

Your FAA may ask you to provide documentation to verify your situation. Gather as much written evidence of your situation as you can. Written evidence may include court or law enforcement documents, letters from a clergy member, school counselor or social worker, and/or any other relevant data that explains your special circumstance.

After carefully reviewing your circumstances, your FAA will decide if you must provide parental information or if your circumstances allow you to proceed without providing parental data.